igneous
Vesicular Basalt
Extrusive mafic igneous rock (Basalt)
Hardness: 6 (Mohs scale); Color: Dark grey to black; Luster: Dull/earthy; Structure: Vesicular (containing gas bubbles/voids); Texture: Aphanitic (fine-grained)
- Hardness
- 6 (Mohs scale)
- Color
- Dark grey to black
- Luster
- Dull/earthy
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6 (Mohs scale); Color: Dark grey to black; Luster: Dull/earthy; Structure: Vesicular (containing gas bubbles/voids); Texture: Aphanitic (fine-grained)
Formation & geological history
Formed from the rapid cooling of magnesium-rich and iron-rich lava at the earth's surface. The holes (vesicles) are formed by trapped gas bubbles escaping during solidification.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in construction for road base, concrete aggregate, railroad ballast, and decorative landscaping stones.
Geological facts
Basalt is the most common rock in Earth's crust and makes up most of the ocean floor. It is also found in abundance on the Moon and Mars.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its dark color, heavy weight (high density), and the presence of small circular or oval holes throughout the surface. Commonly found in volcanic regions.
